12 Homes in 2 Years: A Closer Look At Foster Care Displacement
In my years as a foster and adoptive parent, I’ve found that displacement isn’t a term that is much discussed—but it’s something nearly every foster parent has experienced.
In the context of foster care, displacement refers to the movement of a child from one foster home to another. In actuality, the movement from the birth family into foster care is also displacement. In both cases, it is something we do not want for children.
I’m a mom of three beautiful kids, all of whom were adopted out of the foster care system.
My husband and I were their 12th placement. They were in 11 foster homes in the span of about two years.
Not only have we seen how each move was an additional trauma compounded in our kids’ lives, but we’ve also experienced how displacement causes children to have distrust in adults, making it even harder for the next foster parents.
So why do displacements happen? I have a few different thoughts to share with you.
Unaware of the challenges: I believe foster parents are often not aware of the extent of the challenges or behaviors that the children in their home may present. Keep in mind the behavior the child exhibits might be new for them too!
Unrealistic understanding of trauma: New foster parents often think (and I thought this as a new foster parent as well!): Other parents can't support these children, but we can! I always thought that my love and support could overcome any child's hardest shells. Turns out trauma is cruel and unwavering.
A lack of support and resources for foster parents: Social workers often have caseloads of double or triple the number of children that is considered manageable. This makes it very difficult, if not impossible, to give every child and parent the help they need. Regardless, foster parents need resources and support. Without it, foster parents are drowning and often feel no choice but to displace the children in their home.
Foster parents, you are not meant to walk alone in your struggles – whether that’s behavior that feels impossible or loneliness that is overwhelming.
Church, you can play a part in lessening a foster parent’s burden and reducing the levels of displacement.
We can bridge this gap. That’s where organizations like Project Belong come into play. Project Belong helps the Church identify ways to support foster families and social workers, giving foster parents the support they need to stop the cycle of displacement.
If your church is not connected to Project Belong, have them reach out to us at info@projectbelongva.org about how to get involved.
Lauren Welch is a foster and adoptive mother, advocate and former foster care recruiter and trainer. Lauren previously worked for a Child Placing Agency (CPA) called Lutheran Services of Georgia; and more recently, Lauren was on staff with Project Belong, where she helped Prince William county churches engage in serving vulnerable children and families.
Lauren’s passion is to make a way for more people to foster — and to foster well, with successful support along the journey.
Lauren is married to her husband Joshua of 15 years and has three children adopted from foster care: a daughter of 17 and two sons, 13 and 15. Lauren and her family live in Bertram, TX in their forever home, a planned homestead on 5 acres.
